OTTAWA, ONTARIO – European Butcher recalled its Bacon “Chuncks” after testing confirmed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) said. There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of the bacon products.
The affected lots include variable sizes of approximately 200 grams bearing batch #30210 and Best Before dates of OC.15.21 and OC.22.21. The CFIA is verifying that industry is removing the recalled product from the marketplace. The products were distributed to retail locations in the province of Ontario.
CFIA said test results triggered the recall. In response, the CFIA is conducting a food safety investigation, which may lead to the recall of other products. If other high-risk products are recalled, the CFIA will notify the public through updated Food Recall Warnings.
CFIA urged consumers not to eat the products, because foods contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes may not look or smell spoiled but can still cause serious illness. Symptoms of listeriosis can include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache and neck stiffness. Pregnant women, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk.
Although infected pregnant women may experience only mild, flu-like symptoms, the infection can lead to premature delivery, infection of the newborn or even stillbirth. In severe cases of illness, people may die.